A bowl of delicious comfort, that’s what this soup is all about. It’s got all the basics of a standard chicken soup, but with a powerhouse of flavor thanks to lime, cilantro and a hit of heat. No sides needed here, though a crumble of cotija cheese over the top is a nice touch.

A pretty classic meat sauce that’s embellished with a whole mess of mushrooms. (Translation: loads of flavor, less fat, a little easier on Mother Earth). I typically serve it over roasted cauliflower, but it’s excellent over rigatoni or fusilli as well. Make a big crunchy salad to serve on the side and crusty bread for mopping up the sauce.

A lighter spin on a Greek-style spanikopita, I find this Spinach Pie highly addictive. This is definitely something you can make ahead, enjoying leftovers for lunches (or even breakfast). Don’t worry, filo dough is pretty easy to work with and seeing that golden puff come out of the oven is darn satisfying. As for sides? Maybe start with a cup of soup, like this tomato one or your favorite store-bought boxed soup (p.s. did you know that the vitamin C in tomato soup will boost the absorption of the iron in spinach?)

Wild blueberries are a freezer staple for making smoothies and this one is a good place to start. It’s packed with protein along with healthy fats, which gives it staying power. Get crazy and add a handful of frozen cauliflower and you’ve got a fruit and vegetable powerhouse.

A cheese dip that may make a veggie lover out of the veggie averse. It’s excellent paired with roasted broccoli for a snack, is just as good with cauliflower and Brussels sprouts, and is even tasty on a baked potato.